Secretary of State Marco Rubio says Washington remains committed to helping Nigeria combat terrorism and address security threats.
The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to counterterrorism cooperation with Nigeria, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealing that recent joint operations between both countries led to the elimination of a senior ISIS leader operating within Nigeria.
Speaking before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee during a hearing on the State Department’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget request, Rubio said the US remains actively engaged with Nigerian security forces in efforts to combat terrorism and strengthen regional security. He also expressed concern over reports of violence against Christians in Nigeria, noting that the issue remains a priority for Washington.
Rubio’s remarks come amid growing security collaboration between the United States and Nigeria under President Trump administration. In recent months, both countries have reportedly conducted coordinated operations targeting the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), a terrorist group responsible for numerous attacks across Nigeria’s northeast.
Nigerian authorities, including the Office of the National Security Adviser, confirmed that local intelligence played a key role in the operation. The renewed partnership reflects ongoing efforts to confront threats posed by Boko Haram and ISWAP, groups that have caused widespread loss of life, displacement and destruction across parts of northern Nigeria.